The force that holds atoms together is 1. unknown to scientists. 2. magnetic. 3. electric. 4. gravitational.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is 3. electric.
Atoms are held together primarily by electric forces. This is due to the attraction between oppositely charged particles, namely protons and electrons. Protons, which are positively charged, attract electrons, which are negatively charged. This electromagnetic force is the fundamental force responsible for the structure of atoms and the formation of molecules.
In more detail, atoms consist of a nucleus (made up of protons and neutrons) surrounded by a cloud of electrons. The protons within the nucleus carry a positive charge, while the electrons carry a negative charge. The electric force (also called the electromagnetic force) between these opposite charges binds the electrons to the nucleus, ensuring the atom stays intact. This electric attraction is incredibly strong and is far more significant than the other forces acting on atoms.
Here is a breakdown of why the other options are incorrect:
- Unknown to scientists: This is not correct because the forces that hold atoms together are well understood. The electric force is the primary force at work here.
- Magnetic: While magnetic forces do play a role in some atomic phenomena, they are not the fundamental force holding atoms together. Magnetic forces generally arise from moving charged particles (like in electromagnetism), but they do not bind the nucleus and electrons in an atom.
- Gravitational: Gravitational forces are extremely weak on the atomic scale. Although gravity is a fundamental force, it has negligible effects on the structure of atoms compared to the much stronger electric force. Gravity only becomes significant in objects with very large mass, like planets or stars, not at the atomic level.
In summary, atoms are held together by electric forces between positively charged protons and negatively charged electrons.
